"Let faith, hope, and love overcome these trials and finally prevail."

"Let faith, hope, and love overcome these trials and finally prevail."

A message this 2021

This coming 2021 will be remembered as a second year of the pandemic. Like 2020, this year will be marred by the pandemic's wave, and expect new casualties, possible lockdowns, and a renewed effort to restore stability if not to maintain it.

And to think that this year also marks with a bang and celebrations as any other "new year", this 2021, to put it bluntly, expects extra effort in controlling, if not beating this pandemic. That in every home and workplace people will feel the new normal of "safety" and "concern" as possible casualties occur; and as any other year where everyone spending time with family, friends, and loved ones in turning a new page, words like "caution", "care", "effort", "solidarity", the need for "support", and others will be overheard throughout knowing that this second year of the pandemic will face both old and new challenges and at the same time having one's self fight and fighting back in moving forward not just to control this pandemic but to build a better nation.

But regardless of this challenge, as well as other existing ones, this note expresses hope that the people will fight back and move forward after this pandemic-driven challenge. Again, expect sacrifices, efforts, struggles not just against this hidden foe but also incompetencies, corruption, various forms of injustices that hinders a country's pathway to development. Expect words like justice, freedom, continues to resonate so is development, peace, or hope, especially in this pandemic driven times. 

For now, while waiting for that vaccine or looking for new ways of treatment, that the people's needs are to be addressed, that solidarity and compassion be the norm, and in this time of despair, let this nation's, if not this world's faith, hope, and love, be overcome these trials and finally prevail. 

When fighting for principles means going beyond parameters

When fighting for principles means going beyond parameters

A message for Rizal day

At first, the Filipino folk mark this day to honour the sacrifice of this great Filipino hero, Dr. Jose Rizal. Be it from his talent to those of his dedication for the struggle to self-determination, Rizal is a person one would say worthy of emulation. 

However, despite celebrating his martyrdom and recognsing his aspirations and contributions, the fact that most Filipinos venerate him as well as other heroes without understanding. That they only knew about he as using the power of the pen to convey sentiments, yet, fails to recognise that he himself acknowleges the power of the people-the need for revolution and going beyond the parameters of legality. 

But realistically speaking, that Rizal, with all his talents, chose to sacrifice despite offering him escape by the Katipunan in the hopes that he will bring his thoughts to his grave. But no, his works resonate that Filipinos willing to fight, revolt against tyranny, only to have a country still in shambles and still led by local tyrants in connivance with interests. It is not surprising that some aspects from Rizal's life and works continues to be shown in different depictions. 

It is no joke that Rizal chose to sacrifice. For him perhaps to die is to rest, a "noble death wish" as one may say, but for the folk who believed in him that death may give way to a renewed committment to independence and a new beginning. Sadly, the country Rizal wished for a "good life" remains in a continuining past where a backward, feudal, conservative culture continues to thrive even in an era where words like "freedom", "justice", "equality", "democracy" been overheard as alibis by interests. It is not surprising that leaders who preached about Rizal and other heroes' sacrificies be "worthy of emulation" while those who follow and adhere seriously to their aspirations as either being judged as fools who instead of "living a normal lives" rather chose to fight against an order that's unjust. 

Yes, the desire for freedom, justice, democracy, and other words are reduced to empty phrases by the order and its apologists who favour maintaining entrenched interests, yet for those who adhere to it will continue to resonate and be defended even at the expense of their lives. Like Rizal and others, their commitment to freedom, justice, democracy, and other appealing words are more than just rhetorics. 

It simply needs action even it goes beyond the parameters.

"When sometimes Helping becomes another form of Resisting"

"When sometimes Helping  becomes another form of Resisting”

(Or: “thoughts after president Duterte’s
latest annoying tirades in front of the camera”)

Recent months showed how the president has becoming fearful of a growing people's power. Be it his tirades against the left to those of dismissing the vice president's immediate responses as "competing", the president's recent statements has becoming less of a concern about pressing issues and instead tantrums and rants that annoys the once-silent majority. 

For as people waited from the television to those of social media for his nighttime statements, which's supposedly meant to address the situation brought by the pandemic, president Duterte, being visibly upset rather used it as an opportunity to vent his ire on those criticising his policies, if not threatening those against him even those who rather "doing their job" like in the case of the vice president who's simply helping the people especially after the recent calamities affecting parts of Luzon. For Duterte, what Robredo did was "competing against him" no matter how it appears non-political- or is it simply because she comes from the opposition and he, along with his allies and supporters tend to malign her and other oppositionists as such?

Not surprising that in a time people are in demand for solidarity what the order, through the present administration sees it as an action against their wishes, no matter how it appears itself as a patriotic duty to "help those in need". With their maligning towards those who help somehow exposes their own inability to help irrespective of their views, making those affected whether by this pandemic or calamities of various sorts (earthquakes, floods, etc.) run towards those Duterte and his supporters judged as against him. 

Opposition still grows amidst various risks

The success of the growing opposition lies in the current situation and the order's inability to provide sound formulas other than mere "continuity" of past policies. That aside from the pandemic, the people has increasingly expressed concern if not condemnation over the order's perchance for threats and killings-especially with the president's statement condemning human rights for hindering his campaigns, of tolerating policemen's right to kill, or even pinpointing the media for broadcasting news critical to his agendas. "Justice" has been the theme of political appeals aside from "Freedom". For them, "Justice" is the call of those victimised by extrajudicial killings and slander, while "Freedom" is liberation both from the yokes of both domestic tyranny and from international finance capital and the local oligarchy. Wouldn't be surprised if those calls are also appeals for "revolution" as it was expressed in the streets and in the social media. 

However, wishing for the collapse of the present order is not exactly the same as entusting it to Robredo and the liberal opposition with the execution of those ruins. Not that. For "Duterte's Diehard Supporters": she is being perceived as an illegitimate figure if not an usurper in the vice presidency, and dismissed for representing entrenched interests despite the fact that Duterte himself rubs elbows with oligarchs. Robredo, as the opposition represents the negation of what Duterte envisioned-hence an enemy. 

It is not surprising, for basing on various comments in social media, the dismissive nature of the fanatic shows they, out of defending their idol and dismissing their rivals, justifying the oppressive policies and everything that surrounded the regime as willing to sacrifice freedom and democracy while at the same time claiming they are for those words they ditched in a shameful way. But come also to think that the liberal opposition who out there speculate on Duterte's inaction yet failing to offer sound alternatives other than continuing as it goes. These shows that in fact, there's no difference between Duterte and the liberals for being obedient to neoliberal capitalism that's favourable to both compradores and landlords wanting to "expand the pie" for themselves. 

Still calling for a revolution (from above)
while detesting rebellion (from below)?

For sure his supporters will still continue to cling on Duterte being a "revolutionary" the way they called for a "revolutionary government." A year before the pandemic, there were small-scale demonstrations calling for a "revolutionary government" despite the fact that the president himself retreated from that kind of thought he initially toyed with. They, like their adversaries, cried for "Justice" and "Freedom" but the question is, what kind of "Justice" and "Freedom" will their idol Duterte bestow upon the country- when most Filipinos felt the yoke of domestic oppression? Recently, they changed the narrative, this time joining their idol in venting against the opposition-particularly the underground left for its armed struggle, but how come these fanatics are mum when it comes to the demands of the rebels such as those same words "Justice" and "Freedom"- especially when that same order killed peasants for their right to till and of those who demand for a just peace especially in this time of pandemic. 

But wouldn't be surprised that their earlier calls be "fulfilled" especially when faced with the advance of the two opposition parties, that the Duterte administration, sworn to upheld the order from the very start, has no choice but to adopt dictatorial measures. No one will be able to deny the "sacrifices" that this once-praised Davao mayor makes to sustain the state. Yet, come to think that with the pandemic and other existing issues (particularly major ones), the economic crisis and social imbalance are advancing making popular disgust, if not rebellion really a matter the order can't control with. And not surprising that despite attempts to "recover" by the private sector if not the imposition of the "anti-terrorism act" by the authorities, that the socioeconomic crisis in countries like the Philippines, is a crisis that brings the total decline of the State. With this no wonder why the regime has that thought of using both police and the military so much that some personages from its task force meant to control the pandemic are the same personages from the task force meant to put an end to the rebellion!

With or without pandemic, the root causes continue to persist

And in speaking of those existing issues, that so long as the root causes persist, these conditions that pushes the people to revolt continues to ripen and thus cannot be controlled. With or without the pandemic, those major issues like the feudal oppression in the countryside, the corruption and self-interests brought by self-centric bureaucrats and compradores, altogether in connivance/dictated by big power interests (U.S.,China...) are themselves accountable for underdevelopment and poverty. The order may either deny this, if not blaming certain privileged sectors as it tries to preserve the status quo.

But regardless of the denials, the folk are becoming determined to go beyond the parameters in resisting, fighting back all for national and social liberation. Should they just content in those parameters when the very order is silencing them from the very start? Nope-the people can never accept suffering from that worsening chronic crisis brought by the ruling order and its escalating conditions of oppression and exploitation even amidst their "efforts" to silence by means of slander, arbitrary arrest, or even murder. For the order and its apologists this meant "defending democracy" when in fact these as being done to realise state terror and dictatorship especially with the "Anti-Terrorism Law." 

Yet, such action actually provoked the folk to resist in various forms of struggle especially those who had enough of feudal injustices to those of interest-driven repression by both state and corporate authorities. That labor unions, mass media outlets venting critical information, human rights defenders, and other dissenters alike, have continued their action regardless of countless surveillance to those of harassments and prolonged detention with trumped-up charges. Come to think that their calls were simply "land for the landless", "wage increases", "press freedom and transparency", "suspension of land rent and debt forgiveness", "social subsidies for the needy", "support for frontliners" and even "free/or affordable distribution of COVID19 vaccines", among others- yet the system equates those of subversion and terrorism. 

***

Perhaps, with all the events passed,  the people are now asking themselves: until when the administration clings to its idealised paranoia brought by crime, drugs, the growing opposition against his bullshitry, and this pandemic? The annihilation, despite being shown by many, is not yet fully in sight, but the crisis already exists. For Duterte's supporters, their leader is "trying to do his best" even when in fact seeing him cursing during his fireside chats or depending on his circle of ex-military men and friends. Not surprising that by Duterte favouring his own circle of these men (Go, Lorenzana, Dominguez..) 

this would be the denial of the change that the people yearned of in 2016. 

"Sharing amidst Crisis, and Hope over Fear"

"Sharing amidst Crisis,
and Hope over Fear"

Need not to explain further, but, like this picture, this shows that despite this pandemic and fears of possible spikes, of continuing crisis and efforts for recover, foul mouthed messages, and of overheard threats and nonsense, this note expect everyone has its share of joy and hope amidst both crisis and fear in this season: more than the gifts shown underneath the adorned tree, the money in the red envelope, or the mouthwatering delicious food shown at the dinner table.

And may the unconquerable sun of justice, known simply as Jesus the Christ, who, in the day of his birth in the manger bestow upon all the warmth of his presence in every heart and home.

Merry Christmas.

Staying safe and hope-filled in this pandemic-marred Yuletide

Staying safe and hope-filled
in this pandemic-marred Yuletide

(or: "A Christmas Message in a time of Pandemic")

Warm greetings. 

As the Philippines and the rest of the world are experiencing unprecedented upheaval brought by the pandemic, every person, institution, felt how their plans becoming meaningless as to struggle to cope with not just the health implications of virus, but also to the necessary responses to it. Be it lockdowns, restricted movement, or even the rants of the president that instead created a negative ire by its constituents. 

But despite this, and other recent events, means to alleviate from hardships foster solidarity amongst persons and communities. And to think that never in recent memory has any single event had such a far-reaching impact causing so much uncertainty, still, there's a duty to fight back, forge, and grow with words like "recovery" and "normalcy" getting mattered on. With or without a "blessing" from the government. 

And now, in this season known for giving and for reality's sake, feasting, fears of a possible wave of pandemic resonate and keeps one worry about their health as well as those of others. There are no carols except those from the radio and in social media, while novena masses rather in limited number of parishoners or being videoed for those who can't attend. Authorities even advised to stay at home despite people thriving at malls for their yuletide stuff. Not surprising, for like past years, malls are abling to show some "yuletide spirit" even in this time of pandemic. 

Perhaps, in this season and in the coming year this note would say that everything goes: that people, despite this pandemic will try to earn for a living, to see them in the streets despite numerous policies such as social distancing. The pandemic brought by COVID19 continues while people been waiting for a vaccine and various sorts of treatments to stop the spread and to recover others affected by this disease. Hope that despite numerous trials hope and solidarity be ever prevail, to regain comfort if not prosperity without self-seeking, and to forge further for a future that is to come. 

Wishing for goodwill in a time of division: Thoughts after a visit to Bethlehem long ago (and seeing a concrete wall)

Wishing for goodwill in a time of division:

Thoughts after a visit to Bethlehem long ago (and seeing a concrete wall)

Pilgrimage is at first may mean visiting holy sites, but inside lies an embarking on a journey of prayer, reflection, charity, and solidarity especially for the downtrodden in their times of trials, as well as countless other acts of faith.

But for this writer, that kind of journey isn't about faith alone. In fact, as his colleagues were thinking about the next holiest destination in the Holy Land, this writer encountered many walls and some bridges, especially on the peripheries. And from there one would say "What kind of peace being talked about when there are more walls instead of bridges? For sure one has mistaken peace for their desire of silence."

Especially in Bethlehem, known as the birthplace of the Lord Jesus Christ. As this person remembers his visit, the tour guide talked about the Palestinian Christian Situation where most are struggling out for their living- that they all depend on making crafts all for the visiting tourists be it Roman Catholic or Greek Orthodox alike, altogether looking for a rosary, or, if having enough cash, a vial containing holy soil, oil, and water. He even talked about stark reminders of the Israeli occupation- especially checkpoints that inhibit movement, and passes for Palestinians that able to enter Israel whether for work, or for the well-privileged, a chance to study. 

And because of that experience this writer would say that despite the journey's spiritual nature, that in seeing an actually exisiting truth and in the news being read, would say that the journey isn't just about visiting a holy site- but to remind of a duty to serve humanity. That in seeing the concrete walls and graffitis featuring names of martyrs and their calls of struggle, comes the thought of the need for peace that's based on justice. 

Otherwise, of what is prayer for peace if concrete walls continue to stand? Walls, be it physical or not, makes the view of peace, justice, what more of freedom, less possible. 

BEIT SAHOUR

Located east of Bethlehem, Beit Sahour, also known as "Beit Sahour an-Nasara" (Beit Sahour of the Christians), is believed to be the site of the annunciation to the shepherds (Luke 2), in which angels tell a group of shepherds about Christ's birth. The angel’s good news was not given to the noble or pious, but to workers with a low reputation. And ancient Jewish literature ranked “shepherd” as among the most despised occupations of the time — but for Jesus it was to identify himself with this occupation when he called himself “the Good Shepherd” (John 10:11). 

Popularly known for the "Shepherds Fields", Beit Sahour, the name of this historic city (the house of vigilance) reportedly stems from the Canaanite words ‘Beit’ (meaning ‘place’), and ‘Sahour’ (meaning ‘night watch’). It reflects the city's importance for shepherds, both as a grazing site during daytime and as a place of safety in the abundant caves available to the flocks at night.

And because of that event, there are churches, controlled by both Roman Catholic and Greek Orthodox, situated within the site. For Catholics, a tent-shaped "chapel of the angels" was built by the Franciscans in 1953, and was designed by Italian architect Antonio Barluzzi. Inside, the church has five apses that mimics the structure of a nomadic tent, with words "Gloria in excelsis Deo, et in terra pax hominibus" are inscribed in gold proclaiming the pilgrim "Glory to God in the highest and peace to his people on earth."  

Prior to the construction of the modern church, Franciscan archaeologist Virgilio Canio Corbo excavated the site and found evidence of a large monastic establishment, dating back to a mosaic-floored 4th-century subterranean church, which was said to have been built by St. Helena, the mother of the Emperor Constantine, in the 5th century. 

CHURCH OF THE NATIVITY

Originally built by Roman Emperor Constantine the Great over the cave venerated as Christ's birthplace, this present-day basilica was built by the Roman Emperor Justinian in the 6th century, and is still maintained by both Roman Catholic, Greek Orthodox, and Armenian Apostolic Churches. 

Inside its halls bear a timeless legacy. That despite its surroundings occupied and almost destroyed by various conquerors (Persians, Arabs, Ottoman Turks, Crusaders alike), as well as the growing need for maintenance by its keepers (as the church is also deemed to be endangered for a long time and thus needs to be restored), the church's timeless relevance and sacredness continues to bring thousands of pilgrims, irrespective of its sects around the world.

But within its walls is far from the usual Christmas card image, that the actual place of Christ's birth is a dimly-lit cave that's originally meant to shelter animals. That place, also known as the "Grotto of the Nativity", is to be entered through its Steps located at the right of the iconostasis leading down to the subterranean cave that sometimes caused pilgrims jamming in trying to enter that sacred abode. In its pillars and walls there were crosses drawn signifying the pilgrims of centuries ago, testifying how their faith was stronger in a time when chaos surrounded them. And the silver star, where marks the spot Jesus Christ was born, is surrounded by 15 silver lamps representing the three Christian communities: six belong to the Greek Orthodox, four to the Catholics, and five to the Armenian Apostolic.

MILK GROTTO

A short distance south of the Church of the Nativity is a shrine popularly known as the Milk Grotto. 

Hollowed out of soft white rock, the site, known since the Byzantine era and restored in 1872 by the Franciscans, has been a center of pilgrimage, and continues to remain sacred to both Christians and Muslims, especially mothers who are trying to conceive. 

ccording to legend, this shrine was the place where the Holy Family found refuge during the Massacre of the Innocents, before they fled into Egypt. But the name "Milk Grotto" is derived from the story that a "drop of milk" of the Virgin Mary fell on the floor of the cave and changed its colour to white. The white "milk powder" is also known for its miraculous powers, that by mixing it with food and praying to the Our Lady, mothers believe it will increase the quantity of their milk or enable them to become pregnant.  

***

These places are indeed, truly deepening the faith of many pilgrims and is visited in thousands around the world, irrespective of its sect. And to think that there are cases of scuffles especially in entering its relics- then it is not surprising for their faith seemingly compels them to enter, pray, and wipe a piece of cloth enough for a relic that not just deepens their belief but also a memory of entering that sacred site.

However, from those places where these pilgrimage sites situated, is also a center of protest. That behind being a "Shepherd's Field" Beit Sahour is also centre of Palestinian political activism, as it played a key role in the first and second Intifadas with its local activists using non-violent activism and tax resistance against Israeli occupation. They even send message of goodwill towards its Jewish neighbours, all in pursuit of "breaking bread, not bones". 

But in Bethlehem, this sacred site didn't escape from being a battlefield. In fact, according to Wikipedia, the city is surrounded by two bypass roads for Israeli settlers, leaving the inhabitants squeezed between thirty-seven Jewish enclaves, where a quarter of all West Bank settlers, roughly 170,000, live; the gap between the two roads is closed by the 8-metre high Israeli West Bank barrier, which cuts Bethlehem off from its sister city Jerusalem. Worse, that Christian families who have lived in Bethlehem for hundreds of years are being forced to leave as their land being seized, and homes bulldozed, all for the construction of Israeli settlements. Even the peaceful Beit Sahour is also affected by those seizures as the original Christian Palestinian occupants being driven out of the town, while Israeli settlements occupy their lands with the courts rule that Christian homes as illegal and thus subject to demolition by its occupiers.

And because of those experiences wouldn't be surprised that the Holy Land continues to be in a state of struggle. True indeed that Palestinians are taking arms and fight against the occupation, that one of their calls is a free Palestine "from the River to the Sea"; while concerned Jews expressed the need for addressing the Palestinian situation not by the force of arms but through a serious dialouge and recognising the Palestinian right for self-determination. Not also surprising that from the scene of war both Jews and Arabs who desired peace seriously wished to "break bread than bones" despite the risks being faced. 

For now the concrete walls continues remain stood and divided villages. Warning signs continues to threaten people with gunfire while Israeli settlements rise from the demolished villages. The other side of the walls, however, bear graffitis that expressed Palestinian opposition towards the occupation, if not some houses bear calls like "Free Palestine" to those of names of martyrs killed during the Intifada or the protests against the occupation. There are even graffitis or monuments that bear movements like George Habash's "Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine" or Nayef Hawatmeh's "Democratic Front for the Liberation of Palestine". Ironically, these left-wing Palestinian resistance leaders are themselves, Christian by their family backgrounds yet their calls for liberation are secular in description.  

Pardon if this note may end "political" than "spiritual" especially as this writer, having observed both the pilgrimage sites and the concrete walls, of poor Palestinian Christians trying to work for a living and those of the Israelis in their fortress-like settlements. This note, in recalling the writer's visit in Bethlehem would say that despite its religious nature of that journey, would say that Christ's birth is not about spiritual redemption alone but also in pursuit of social liberation- just like what the Magnificat said, how Christ, being the promised redeemer, transforms the world "where the proud will be brought low, and the humble will be lifted up; that the hungry will be fed, and the rich will go without." And from those words, isn't it that political? Even the Lord's prayer itself is also political- for the words in the prayer are the “most revolutionary words human beings could imagine” in calling for God’s Kingdom to come and for His will to be done on earth as in heaven.

Anyway, may those words "peace", "goodwill", and "justice to all" be realised.

"Pandemic or Not, it's all about their interest over the people"

 "Pandemic or Not, it's all about their interest over the people"

Bluntly speaking, this note is ought to say that for the order who deals upon this pressing issue, it doesn't matter whether the pandemic will subside or not, for sometimes having that pandemic is itself a reason for the order to "put people in their place." Of course, people will oppose that measure citing it affects their daily movement (such as those of going to work or to buy necessary needs), but the order sees it as an opportunity to put their perception of stability, even it requires mobilising the police and the military to control people's movement, of imposing stringent measures in various levels and rebranding it as "quarantine" just to show how the regime is itself "fighting" the pandemic- even it isn't in a supposed medical manner and procedures such as the need for mass testing and necessary medical support especially frontliners. 

But as people continue to struggle amidst regulated movements and fear brought by the pandemic, authorities, who all sit comfortably in their high-end offices, and in connivance with interests, shrug people's concerns altogether if not being treated as an opportunity for their political agendas for 2022. In fact, various corporate entities take opportunity to make profit on this pandemic while corrupt politicians trying their best to "beautify" themselves in feigning doing charity for the poor.

However, in the halls of Malacañang comes a myriad of contradictions- that in one of presidential fireside rants, President Rodrigo Duterte wants the government’s vaccination program against COVID19 to kick off earlier than the projected second quarter of 2021, a change of statement from its earlier promise to "bring back normalcy" this December with vaccines to be distributed. Another statement from Duterte said he only recently saw the importance of mass tests after months of skepticism if not disagreeing with concerned officials stressing its importance. 

Yet, come to think that most of his rants shown in television emphasises the administration's real interest as not on how to provide support in this continuing pandemic problem nor the need to acquire vaccines from various sources (be it Pfizer, AstraZenica, or Sinovac) but rather the obsession of defeating the rebels with Duterte and his camarilla wallow in an endless stream of counterinsurgency war profit. The recent red taggings, witch hunts, and the extrajudicial killings has shown how the order, driven by their hatred against the growing mass of opposition from the toiling masses has preferred to continue wielding the sword of war as it continues its low intensity conflict in various names and rephrased plans. 

Like Aquino in 1987, Duterte would rather respond popular discontent not by social and economic reform or immediate relief for the downtrodden mass, but by police, military, and paramilitary action. And in speaking of that "wielding the sword of war" sometimes a concerned would wonder, what's the use of having an agency such as "adviser on the peace process" when the regime simply scrapped negotiations altogether? 

With these, a concerned would say "not surprising" about the situation. That as in the past, the order is either remorseless or unrepentant in its move to focus on their interest even it requires sacrificing its people be it this pandemic or the usual cycle of witchhunts and killings.  

"When defending rights coincides with...Arrest"

"When defending rights coincides with...Arrest"

By Kat Ulrike

The recent arrest that coincides with the "International Human Rights Day" has showeth how the order will continue with its venture. 

That like thieves in the night, authorities conducted four simultaneous raids on residences of six labor rights advocates and a journalist in Quezon City, Manila, and Mandaluyong between 2:00 - 3:00 in the morning last December 10 with evidences planted to justify their motives.

Those arrested and detained due to planted evidences consists of six trade unionists and one journalist. Here are as follows: 

• Dennise Velasco (Defend Jobs Philippines)
• Jaymie Gregorio Jr (Kilusang Mayo Uno)
• Romina Astudillo (Kilusang Mayo Uno)
• Mark Ryan Cruz (Kilusang Mayo Uno)
• Joel Demate (Solidarity of Labor for Rights and Welfare - SOLAR)
• Rodrigo Esparago (Sandigang Manggagawa sa Quezon City - SMQC)
• Lady Ann Salem - Manila Today

From this arrest, along with earlier incidents and bouts of witch hunts, lies the fact that the order's intensified crackdown against critics comes an obvious contempt for human rights. And from these arrests demonstrate how the order, via the current administration considers that human rights, as any other laws under the present constitution as a "doormat" for their orderist agenda. For the apologists, this doesn't matter for them whether it was planted or actually found by state elements, for the important is, these arrested are perceived as "enemies" of the state and therefore deserves that kind of unlikely consequence- and this is unsurprising. 

But will the concerned just stay quiet for this? True that these personalities are either against the administration or being critical on the administration's policies, but does it lead to another wave especially against those simply expressed their disbelief in their leader whose supporters look upon as their idol? Even Vice President Robredo is included in those witchunts brought by the order's apologists simply because she is "competing" against their idol! So again, will the concerned shy away for this system-sponsored paranoia? 

"More than an appeal to recover: Stand and Fight Back!"

 "More than an appeal to recover:
Stand and Fight Back!"

by Kat Ulrike

As in the past, defence policy in the Philippines has less to do with defending its national sovereignty against foreign invaders, but instead continues to pursue a policy that keeps society in a state of fear by endusing that the local population supports whatever orderist agenda the regime and its armed forces pursue "in the name of the people." From this, the armed forces attains both economic and social objectives through promoting internal security. 

Reminiscent of Marcosian tactics and Aquino's "Low Intensity Conflict", the Duterte regime's version of "war on terror" remains "multidimensional"- encompassing political, diplomatic, economic, all in pursuit of "winning the peace". It is not surprising for as the regime, taking pride in its extrajudicial killing or its unjust arrests as a "necessary move", with its apologists using "anticommunism" or its earlier "anti crime" as its rallying point to support with. With this kind of venture, close to 50,000 people in the country have been victims of state terror. Mostly are peasants whose lives been subjected to the whims of the thugs-in-uniform via psywar and combat operations. Even in Metro Manila and its surrounding provinces instances of arrests and killings against activists occurred and rebranded as cases of "resisting arrest" or "illegal possession of firearms" to justify such moves. 

For the apologist of the order, Duterte's version of Low Intensity Conflict is more than a rehash of "democracy versus communism", "against illegal drugs/crime", or an outright call for "total order versus democratic chaos", and these are used to obscure the true agenda of protecting and promoting interests both local oligarch/bureaucrat cliques and foreign conglomerates. By borrowing U.S. Colonel Waghelstein, this kind of action is "total war at the grassroots level", which includes economic and humanitarian assistance as "weapons" while at the same time mobilising either its police/military or the dreaded death squads that also supported by the state. Not surprising if these also supported by allies especially the United States, with its recent acquisition of weapons systems to be used for counterinsurgency purposes. And by suspending the negotiations in favour of Duterte's declaration of war supported by the armed forces, has intensified its operations. Operations like Oplan Kapanatagan and Oplan Kalasag, both described as "whole of nation approaches", are itself derived from the LIC scheme. 

In response to these actions, international human rights groups and known individuals have condemned the Duterte regime for its bloodied venture-of widespread killings and rights abuses. But again, for the apologists, this doesn't matter to them but instead further justifies it by covering up its crimes, or by hearing promises of blanket pardon from the president himself, or by outright equating human rights to "communism" reminiscent of Marcos's accusation of Human Rights as a communist-driven motive. For sure one would also remember statements like "shoot in the vagina", or its earlier rape jokes,  myriad of foul-mouthed messages, and the outright downplaying of the peace negotiations by Duterte himself reflected the administration's actions against the perceived "enemies of the state" whether by its aerial bombing, outright takeover of civilian facilities such as schools, or harassments/coercion from uniformed and non-uniformed elements- that  diminishes the civic and humanitarian programs that primarily aims to "coordinate both civilian and military resources in its offencive" against terrorism and crime. Wouldn't be surprised if state elements also toyed the idea of disbanding the "office of the adviser of the peace process" in order to justify further the basis of discontinuing the negotiations in favour of an all out war "solution."

But despite this, the people who have taken a stand against Duterte's actions chose to stand up and resist against his tyranny. From the recent protests to those of memes in social media, the people, including those who once supported him, realise the fact how the man who once promised "change" turned to be a farce, a mockery of people's hopes and aspirations regardless of what the administration tries to brag such as carryovers of past infrastructure programs or "reforms" that actually rephrased from the past both altogether meant to evade people from seeing the bloodied agenda. These forces, in valuing human rights and national interests are trying to assert and defend through whatever is left of legal courses with greater courage despite reprisals from the order and its attack dogs and only armed with principles and determination to resist against their motives.

“Drawing strength from faith and devotion amidst fear and disquiet”

“Drawing strength from faith and devotion amidst fear and disquiet”

(Or: “thoughts after Duterte’s Immaculate Conception message”)

For sure everyone cannot forget how that leader said that God is stupid, that he chose to go to hell "so that the people will live in paradise", and a myriad of tirades against the church, all just to defend his bloodied venture. 

But to think that with his message on this feast of the Immaculate Conception, just like this coming Christmas, or even Lent and Easter next year, all these together as expressing an appeal to unity using faith, then what an irony. For sure one would ask if is he's trying to curry favour with Christians especially those voted for him amidst his bloodied ventures and inactions, all after his earlier tirades accusing the clergy and the faithful for being against him in the name of "human dignity" and "human rights." "Let us all draw strength from the holy life and example of the Virgin Mary" as what he said, while some years ago he lambasted the Pope and the religious, while his supporters accused one clergyman after another of being a communist simply because of their really concerning statements and appeals. 

Perhaps, no matter how it appears not to be political, that as Christians, any other other religious, would say that there's hope in resisting against the wishes of an oppressive order and a tyrant who leads in it. That everyone should "do their share one another, of valuing justice, peace, respect for human dignity, and human rights" even in this scenarios of disquiet and rage. 

 

"More than a commemoration- a call for action"

"More than a commemoration- a call for action"

by Kat Ulrike

At first, this note pays tribute to the founder of the Katipunan and the Great Plebeian, Andres Bonifacio, whose life, labours, and legacy continues to serve as an inspiration for countless generations.

This may deemed strange given his foolishness as his detractors described him, but, his passion for liberating his country what more of his support for the folk outweighs his mistakes as a leader of a revolution. And to think that in this commemoration, done amidst this ever-present pandemic and the tragedies brought by calamities, shows that the Filipino people tries to fight back and live no matter how it felt the suffering be it those calamities or the negligence brought by the order that supposed to serve especially after those times of turmoil. It is the same Filipino who, burdened by billion-peso debts, is also sick and tired of corrupt bureaucrats, of despotic officials, who represses the folk with new "policies", "laws", and "incidents" all in the name of interests as in the time of Bonifacio and the Filipino during his period.

And up to this day, the folk continues to be challenged as it continues his unfinished struggle for national and social emancipation. For contrary to the order's petty statements, the reality that the very order has benefited from its corruption and injustices, words like "change" coming from their mouths has becoming a joke, a mockery against those who are really desired. But despite these, the folk cannot just remain silent for those actions the order (through its figureheads) has brought to them- that's way too contrary to their statements mostly appeals for "unity".
And in speaking of those statements and appeals for "unity" for sure as in the past that these figures would again reiterate Bonifacio, as any other hero's act as worthy of an example the way Duterte saying that Bonifacio should be an inspiration to all Filipinos especially in this pandemic. Indeed but, since these leaders talked about these heroes while at the same time oppresses its people in the name of order, then is this the society as envisioned by Bonifacio, Rizal, and others who sacrificed their mind and sinew to that "altar of freedom"? Not surprised that there are those who rather find "real" the message of Robredo that courage shouldn't be brut strength but also with compassion- especially in this time of disquiet and rage, of people wanting good leaders than those of thugs in suits.

Pardon for the thought for as reality is way too far from the statements of today's leaders like Duterte. Whether he exhort the Filipino to "love the country and fight for it" or to "push for a strong and progressive Philippines", the ordinary folk rather sees the contrary that those who love and fight for their country are the ones deprived while the corrupted claims that they do love their country when it is actually out of their convenience. For sure since 2016 he promised change that some find him as a radical alternative to a "yellow" problem; but, did that change he promised really happen: especially with a cabal of those trying to maintain their interests? For sure Duterte would claim he's fighting oligarchs, but did it really end their reign? Nope- actually he benefited from their very existence no matter how he promised to curb their power nor his followers desiring to end their reign.
And although "true" that he put an end to Wongchuking's Mighty Corporation or forced Lucio Tan to pay taxes, this doesn't translate to justice. Did he sided with the farmworkers of Lapanday when these people demand justice? Nope-he chose to side with the Lorenzos. Did he sided with the urban poor dwellers of Sitio San Roque when the Ayalas came to occupy their land? Nope even- making his 2016 promise of "no demolition without relocation" a farce. He did preach about promise of human rights the way he values "human lives" over their "rights", but the fact that harassments, killings, and threats became widespread in the name of order, then, he as the representative of that dreaded order created rebels who are willing to go beyond legality no matter he tries to restrain them. These rebels are as same as Bonifacio in the past: driven by passion, aside from their love of country and their families as their reason to fight and sacrifice.

Perhaps to cut this note short, that in this occasion, celebrated in this time of pandemic and a myriad of threats from the order, that the folk should not stop seeking truth from facts and to fight back against slander and oppression. Call it a "call for action" as one may say, for like Bonifacio, it becomes a duty to become aware, what more to resist and assert for immediate relief, necessary changes, a desire for social and economic justice that the order failed to offer as such despite promises. 

"Remembering Frederick Engels in his 200th year"

 "Remembering Frederick Engels in his 200th year"

by Kat Ulrike

At first, this note is in one with the working people in marking the 200 birth anniversary of the writer Frederick Engels. Known as a writer, historian, fighter, at quite some time a businessman and as a lifelong friend and colleague in struggle of Karl Marx, Engels made immense contributions to the development of Marxism as an ideology of the working class. From this would say that the working folk treasure the contributions what Engels bequeathed to them. 

Born from a well-to-do family, Frederick Engels was just 22 when he was sent by his father to England to help run the family firm. His father hoped that this would draw him away from radical ideas he engaged during his college days, but, from that same Manchester England where he worked, that young man rather saw instead the suffering, and the power of a growing proletariat whom he rather supported their struggle. 

Marking Engels' birth anniversary in this present day cannot be more significant and relevant as the global capitalist order faces an ever continuing and unprecedented crisis. Despite numerous achievements ever bragged under capitalism, this doesn't hide the fact that intolerable conditions and untold sufferings on the labouring folk continues to rise: with low wages, bad working conditions, joblessness, cuts on social service spending, indebtedness, and various measures especially under neoliberal capitalism just like what Engels and Marx faced. 

From these somehow that along with Marx, Engels devoted in formulating, developing Marxism through their collection of works (be it Das Kapital, the Communist Manifesto, or some essays and correspondences related to the emancipation of the working class) that served as a reference for the working class in their struggle for radical social change since the 19th century. Hence, The proletariat owes Engels and Marx the standpoint and system of thought which point them to the path towards their emancipation. That, for the first time in history, it was shown that liberation from all forms of oppression comes not as a result of mere idealism, but rather as a conscious historical act of class struggle by the proletariat.
Tracing from history, they revealed how capitalism, as any other order prior to it, gave birth to the class who will not only dismantle the old social order, but will establish a society that will end the history of classes and class exploitation.
And although prior to Marx and Engels there were men and organisations who tried to look for radical solutions to a centuries-old repression, the observations and works of these two colleagues-in-struggle consolidated it that in 1848, they were commissioned by the German Communist League to elucidate on the main principles of scientific socialism and communism. It was from that same year when they wrote the "Manifesto of the Communist Party" which shook the ramparts of the capitalist order. Since then, the Communist Manifesto would serve as the general declaration of principles of all communist parties with the exhortation “The proletarians have nothing to lose but their chains. They have a world to win.” and "Workers of the World, Unite!" that has inspired generations of revolutionaries.

Again, as this note marks the 200th birth anniversary of Frederick Engels, the labouring masses should draw inspiration from his dedication to the struggle for their emancipation. No matter how critics would try to put down their contributions, more are ever determined to study in order to firmly grasp the view that Marx, Engels, and other revolutionaries brought, to be dedicated in their commitment to the workers and oppressed classes, and to lead with determination in various struggles, marching along the path towards emancipation.

“Is it to Defend the land or to Destroy the people?”

“Is it to Defend the land 

or to Destroy the people?”

(Or: "Thoughts after the recent acquisiton of weapons
And how the order treats modernisation whether to defend the nation
or to upheld the order")

By Kat Ulrike

It is not surprising that the administration has turned "westwards" after the recent "donation" of 8 Million Dollars worth of guided bombs and missiles needed for counterinsurgency purposes.

For the fact that the administration has been looking "eastward" for acquiring weapons for its modernisation of the armed forces, the administration's perchance for strongmen like US President Donald Trump has mellowed its anti-American angst. What more that it benefited more from that recent "donation" of those US-made arms.

Earlier, the administration has signed an agreement for the purchase of the Indo-Russian BrahMos cruise missile, again as part of its modernisation plan. That missile has been brought amidst rising tensions with China over the disputed isles in the West Philippine Sea. Another agreement, this time with France, involves supplying the country with Submarines with the Defence secretary highlighted French submarines as being among the appropriate choices for the Philippines as it considers the capability. The French shipbuilder Naval Group plans to open an office in Manila in early 2021 as it seeks to advance its serious interest in supplying the Philippine Navy’s first ever submarines.

However, back to the topic, it seems that for the order it doesn't matter about defending its territory but instead to defend its interests in the name of "counterterrorism". With the recent witchhunts and redtaggings would say that the order as planning to unleash its wave of attack that embolden the order's attack dogs in their dirty war of suppression. And not surprising if countries that promised support for improving Philippines' defence is itself supporting the order's action against the people. 

And with US Support, the order has conducted relentless aerial bombing and artillery shelling campaigns, a repeat of the total destruction of Marawi in an attempt to destroy the rebels- despite the fact that aerial bombardment against moving guerrilla targets violate the international principle of proportionality and always potentially bring losses to civilian lives and property. Of course, that "rebel" isn't the CIA-supported Abu Sayyaf or the Maute group!

On second thought would say that those weapons are yes, modern indeed to be used in defending the country against external invasion, that the BrahMos and the Scorpene Submarines, or even the guided bombs and drones as necessary weapons for defending the country against the invader. But with the reality that the regime will use those weapons to "flatten the hills", this meant otherwise: destroying communities, homes, and sources of livelihood; bringing nothing but fear and suffering as these folks rather forced to be displaced by the order. 

Perhaps, this kind of "donation" as all but one of the moves for Trump as a gesture of support for his vassal Duterte. Especially with Biden's likely coming as US President may meant his Democrats willing to persecute Duterte out being an international pariah in terms of human rights.

"Still Unresolved"

 "Still Unresolved"

(Or: "When Justice still continues to haunt the Ampatuans
even inside their cells")

At first, this note is ought to say that the events brought by the Ampatuans was itself an act of savagery. Driven by their desire to remain in power, this local tyrant has killed a total of 58 people, including 32 journalists, simply because of "supporting" a political rival. 

It is unsurprising those times, especially that with politicians trying to maintain in power it involves impunity, this massacre was the worst incident of electoral violence in recent Philippine history and remains the single deadliest attack on journalists globally.

However for the administration and its apologists, the case has been resolved given "the concrete efforts of the government in bringing to justice the suspects" if not saying that "Philippine justice system is fair and effective" especially after the guilty verdict on the Ampatuan brothers and companions.

But from these statements, the question is, despite 28 principal suspects and 15 others as accessories to these murders, how come all verdicts have been appealed and 80 other suspects still remain at large? Is the order's declaration simply a means to "shut up" those who are concerned regarding this case? Not surprising especially from an order that fails to promote justice in this time of extrajudicial acts, if not justifies a culture of fear in order to promote a draconian order based on maintaining their interests. What more the thought of shrugging the decision from the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organisation to maintain the classification of that case as 'unresolved'.

Perhaps the call for justice continues to remain as the calls for ensuring the welfare of workers and the right for information; that everyone concerned rather not to forget that kind of catastrophe brought about by these local tyrants and the order that coddles them. 

"Fighting back for a Volksgemeinschaft"

"Fighting back for a Volksgemeinschaft"

At first, this note is ought to say that this writer bid greetings on the anniversary of the October Revolution. This occasion, which marks the rise of a society ran and led by the working class, was and is a nightmare for the established orders that even until today continues to resonate in every corner of the world.

Quite strange to some at first, especially that the Soviet Union was already gone decades ago; but to those who survive and remember would say that despite its shortcomings that revolution carried out by the working people many years ago initiated a new epoch in world history- no matter how those against slander or even dare to invade especially during the second world war. The Soviet Union that's been detested because of "Marxism Leninism" was the same Soviet Union that brought the world's first atomic power station, made the world's first batch of passenger jet planes and intercontinental ballistic rockets, and launched the world's first and second man-made earth satellites and a space station. It was also the same Soviet Union that preserved, rather than destroyed the palaces in Kremlin and the Churches of the tsarist past, the Bolshoi Ballet, the study of Pushkin's works, alongside the encouragement of Proletarian Culture and creative ideas all meant to forge a society for the working class. 

However, this note isn't about commemorating that part of history but rather to rekindle that spirit behind that history especially in this time of "fighting" and "taking back the future." For in a way Gustav Mahler told that 'Tradition is not the worship of ashes, but the preservation of fire', the revolutionary tradition brought by that October Revolution meant learning and understanding lessons that brought out of struggle not just to emancipate the working class and oppressed peoples but to pursue a development that's brought by social justice. That even those from the other side recognise how "fast" that development brought despite the issues of prison camps. The "speed" of development has created wonders in various forms, that altogether creates an outlook of the future those against has trying to deny. 

***

That until today people would wonder about that alternative. Of course, both liberals and conservatives would dare to disagree a radical alternative to that capitalist status quo. One would claim about the frailties of man and the "beauty of nature" that cannot be altered. The question is, as humanity recognises its frailty, why not correct it? Nature is indeed beautiful, but why humanity under this capitalist order chose to exploit than to cherish it? But it is not surprising that from these orderists, be it the liberal or the conservative, has created radicals who chose to oppose them all because of the former two's defence of capitalism and instead demanding an alternative that today's liberals and conservatives cannot offer.

For with the agreements and organisations aligned with the maintaining of the neoliberal capitalist system, the intention of using the national economy as a gigantic profit-extraction operation including those of the transformation of the nation's agriculture and industry into a "colossal workshop" for international capital, has been a issue-especially in making the people into a labour force that can be easily disposed after their contracts expired, and its resources to be extracted but not for the people themselves.

In light of this development would say that their agenda brought about by these people meant betraying the nation and its yearning for development. Of course they would claim about development, but at what expense? Social justice? This reminds of one commentator that "working hard is enough and a few crumbs will fall down", another would claim that "wages are low but food is cheap", but how come despite seeing people working hard or even smart all for a pittance that same capitalism continues to create disparity and scarcity? For sure economists who tend to defend that economic system downplay about that statement-especially in a time when people are tired of that capitalist failure to do justice to the vital state and social interests of the people- that such realities has showed how capitalist perversion of "freedom" and "initiative" has decieved, betrayed the folk. Yes, that capitalism babbled by liberals and conservatives promised jobs, food, development for the future come as shown by their statements and achievements as shown in various outlets- but reality has shown otherwise with no security of tenures, pittance-level wages, rising cost of living, interest-seekers prevailing, of what is development and the future if it is not for the labouring folk? 

This writer would say that both conservatism and liberalism indeed speak much of reform and innovation, of growth and retention as shown by Gladstone, Disraeli, or Hamilton; but by seeing the same two strands at the present together defending capitalism as promoting "development" according to Reagan, Thatcher, or even Tony Blair and Donald Trump, shows that both views, while seeing the flaws of the capitalist order chose to shrug in it- but instead talking about their distorted view on "freedom" while the people, tired by their market-centric views demand a new volksgemeinschaft.
And that volksgemeinschaft can be dismissed as "utopian" because it is "radical" especially when the folk sought to replace the compradore and the landlord, the corrupt bureaucrat and the lobbyist. At times both present-day liberals and conservatives would toy their thoughts by claiming they're against "oligarchs" but they can't replace outright the system for they benefited from it-instead talking about "expanding the pie" by letting outsiders to join in the fray of exploitation and calling it as "development"- the way they speak about production was replaced by "international finance capital" both liberals and conservatives also once detested. They would claim that they are for the country, but at the same time they preach about "smaller government" and "free trade". 

Not also surprising that the economy according to theirs is a separate matter that only "experts" should deal with it- and that "experts" obviously, think about the market than the country and profit than the people. It is the same "experts" who, wished to replace the polis with the markets; of reducing democracy into a façade wherein people retaining their right to vote while decision making rests at the cabal of interest-seekers and exploiters. Wouldn't be surprised that they're also thinking that economics has its own world: almost separate from national affairs other than those of paying taxes and providing jobs. That the stock market is their homeland, the dollar is their religion, profit is their faith, the banks as their republic. 

***

For sure there are those who disagree with that blunt statement knowing they all benefited from neoliberal capitalism. They would claim that "civic" or "cultural" nationalism as enough, that paying taxes and waving the flag is itself a "duty", if not downplay nationalism altogether as irrelevant and thing of the past; then if so, then how about capitalism? It is the same capitalism that diminishes love for kith and kin, of destroying heritage, of dismissing the future in favour of a warped "human factor" or a distorted version of "freedom" that justifies exploitation. It is unsurprising, especially when both present-day liberals and conservatives can't attack the very economic order supposed to be dismantled as such as in the past when they once detested. 

And to think that both present-day conservatives and liberals tell tales about the frailties of humanity and the beauty of nature, responsibility and freedom, of social justice and noble duty, reality becomes otherwise- as these two sides of the coin dismissed their statements altogether in favour on one word: compromise, compromise with the prevailing social order no matter how evil it is. For sure nothing is wrong about compromise, but up to when? They would claim that there are some "changes" out of that compromise, but how come people remain dissatisfied? For sure they would say "there is no alternative" because these people are satisfied about today's order of things, that "globalised capitalism, so called free markets and free trade were the best ways to build wealth, distribute services and grow a society's economy. Deregulation's good, if not God." what more that some dare to accelerate further towards technological singularity reminiscent of Jack London using Ayn Rand for a gateway drug. 

For now expect they're detesting that populist interlude despite the fact that they themselves as once populists who trying to put a folkish veneer on the existing order. Be it Trump, Biden, Duterte, or Robredo, Just like they talk about "freedom", "responsibility", "human factor", and other words enough to appease people, they would blame the oligarchs but not capitalism, they would blame the despotic landlords but not feudalism, they would criticise the first world leaders but not imperialism, but since reality goes like replacing the halls with markets and the desire for knowledge with crass materialism, what kind of future reality has talked about? Of course that ain't the volksgemeinschaft the masses desired of! Otherwise, that "volksgemeinschaft" if to be hijacked by the orderists rather destroys people and nation, culture and morals, violating the deepest levels of a community's being! 

***

Regardless of denials and downplays, the events of 1917 and its succeeding actions around the world continue to resonate as the people demands a new volksgemeinschaft. 

That as in the past, people will still demand for peace, land, bread, and justice as the prevailing order continues to exploit two and fro for the latter's interest. True that the world hath seen developments in various forms, thriving as one may say; but this doesn't escape the fact that the order remains as it was- and this time trying to reverse people's achievement in pursuit of an untrammeled capitalism as in the 19th century. But that attempts for reversal is responded by countless protests that shows how the vast mass of people strongly disagrees with the order’s attempt to reverse in pursuit of their interests- no matter how its apologists trying to appease their anger as such. It is unsurprising especially that when these orderists, by assuming both as "liberals" and "conservatives" trying to maintain their interests by claiming to be for "freedom", "conservation", "reform", enough to appease the growing people's tremor for these same words aside from “justice”. 

"When disasters and calls for help again includes lambasting incompetents"

"When disasters and calls for help
again includes lambasting incompetents"

Thoughts after the protests against Duterte's neglect and indifference
over the recent calamities

The recent actions brought by the students has triggered the order and its apologists. 

Brought by the administration's display of utter disinterest, indifference to the plight of Filipinos affected by the recent typhoons that shook Luzon and other parts of the country over the past five weeks, the people witnessed firsthand how the government failed to show concern to the people while claiming that the people as resilient in that time of crisis. 

Bluntly speaking, Duterte and his officials were practically non-existent while the folks faced the storm and floods. These folks did struggled on their own, even calling for help as no one in the government except those who seriously concerned as the vice president dare to take action. The severe impact of devastation brought by the storms and floods also meant slow growth for affected sectors especially agriculture; what more it was aggravated by the government’s inaction to coordinate its agencies and local government units, put in place preemptive measures, release much needed funds, mobilise men and equipment all for swift rescue/recovery efforts and assistance.
But to see Duterte himself complaining about Robredo acting on her behalf as Vice President, or blaming the victims for supposedly not heeding warnings showeth his indifference to the plight of these people affected by the recent storms. But this doesn't escape the fact that the regime has different priorities in terms of attention and funding such as those of counterinsurgency and corruption-ridden infrastructure projects, while its disaster agencies are incapable of extending even the barest necessary assistance to those especially calling for immediate aid in affected areas especially in the provinces swept by the typhoons and even Marikina city. 

***

Regarding the recent call for a "student strike" brought by Ateneo de Manila and supported by other schools like the University of the Philippines, it is expected that those who defend the order downplay the youth as naïve or "manipulated by subversive elements" because of their opposition to the regime especially after the latter's serious neglect in responding to health, economic, and even disasters. If being aware of realities and demanding an alternative is itself an act of subversion, then why not? Even democracy itself was once chided as subversion and chaos by those who favour a regimented social order. Wouldn't be surprised that those who detested these actions calling for accountability and justice also have that kind of disdain for human rights and rule of law. That for theirs supporting the president "right or wrong" as their priority no matter how snail-paced and barely sufficient that goddamn government aid people seriously needed.
Wouldn’t be surprised if they talk about the need for discipline with all their nostalgic memories, but how about the need for competent people willing to take the risk and brave the storms? For sure those who once voted for Duterte expressed dismay for seeing him way too far from his depiction as an “action man” who promised to defend his country’s sovereignty and to ensure the needs of the people. 

***

But regardless of these fanatics assailing on the recent concerns and protests, the reality that the regime's uselessness and negligence is what pushes the folk, be it the youth or the old, to stand up and get out of their workplaces, all regardless of the risks to voice out their angst against that incompetent leader.

With the past week’s following of strong typhoons saw the action of various groups and its relief operations, these also showeth how from these concerned individuals and groups truly value the nation by any means; but despite those actions of "giving and sharing" this doesn't mean giving up altogether their calls for immediate support from the government much more to expose and oppose those who serves as stumbling blocks to their need for immediate assistance as well as those of social justice. Apologists of the order may tend to deny that truth the way how they describe Duterte's actions as statesmanlike (despite doing an ocular visit while lambasting Robredo as "competing") After all, those concerned organisations behind the operations as well as calamity victims are trying to ensure that aid really goes to those really need rather than self-centred officials from defrauding them of what is theirs if not  treating as political gimmicks.

"New faces, new phrases, but same order"

"New faces, new phrases, but same order"

(Thoughts on the victory of Joe Biden as President of the United States
and its implications in the Philippines)

The victory of the Biden-Harris duo in the United States doesn't equate to freedom from imperialism the way it doesn't end neoliberalism and other systemic conditions that brought Donald Trump to fame. But instead, it gave a new appearance enough to appease the people. 

How come this note said so? During the Trump administration, that despite Duterte's feigning anti-Americanism, it didn't stop the United States from supporting the agenda brought by Duterte what more of the mutual admiration between these two rulers as shown by Trump's visit in Manila. But, as Biden won the presidency, it is expecting for Duterte and his camarilla to change the tune despite its initial support for Trump during that recent election- and for sure he and his ilk will "try their best" to appease the Democrat-led administration knowing the latter's perchance for human rights Duterte himself detests.
But in speaking of human rights, Biden himself, like Obama and other presidents who sworn to upheld the ruling international order, eyes a tougher regional presence as opposed to Trump's transactional, "America first" foreign policy. However, it was the same Trump who gradually embrace globalism. Biden, also served as committee chair in 2002, backed GOP's George W. Bush's war against Iraqi president Saddam Hussein on the basis of "weapons of mass destruction". 

But does these change the situation? Nope. As said before, the military industrial complex, sensationalised media, banks, the stock market, and others who defend that goddamn order benefited from it. Neoliberalism remains the prevailing view even in this populist interlude. It is unsurprising, especially that underneath the veneer of calls for unity and democracy is the order where capital is king at the expense of labour.
And as for the Philippines, the United States still look to the islands as its military outpost in Southeast Asia as in the past, if not a strategic foothold to counter China. Duterte may speak two and fro about junking the VFA, EDCA, and other military agreements with the United States- but these are rather dismissed as bluffs no matter his supporters expressed it as a show of patriotism, what more that those in the government beg not to pursue out of maintaining their Yankee-centric interests. 

As said earlier, it is the duty of the people to seek truth from facts, and to expose what is unjust.

"Pinning hopes on Trump or Biden doesn’t change the problem”

"Pinning hopes on Trump or Biden 

doesn’t change the problem”

(Or: “short thoughts on the 2020 US Presidential Elections 

and how will affect the Philippines”)

Frankly speaking, that regardless of who wins the presidency of the United States, that its very ruling order stays "as it is" towards its vassals like the Philippines. Duterte may have lean towards China, but does it scrapped the agreements like MDT, EDCA, and VFA? Remember, despite Duterte's show distrust towards the United States, political and military support from that country continues still as the second-hand helicopters handed over to the Philippine Air Force. 

And to think that both Duterte and Trump expressed mutual admiration, then the former's show of distrust against the United States was plain simple "personal expression" limited to angst such as towards the past Obama administration who criticised his action. But, if Biden wins the presidency, there lies a possible shift on how US will engage Duterte- and that includes opposing Duterte's Human Rights violations (especially from those who signed the Magnitsky act), while at the same time seeing agreements like the VFA continues to be discussed and possibly respected by both countries- in which critics strongly oppose. 

Again, regardless of who wins the presidency, the order in the United States doesn't change. There may be cosmetic and  symbolical "changes" perhaps, or even compromises enough to appease both the people and the order; but to think that the only ones winning are the banks and financial institutions, tech companies and the industrial trusts, the media, and globalists alike altogether defending capitalism, then it is not surprising to call it either as continuity or normalcy. 

All in all, regardless of who leads the presidency, that the vassal-like relationship between the Philippines and the United States remain "as-it-is": having its unequal treaties intact as in the past, agreements benefiting the order- at the expense of the people and its desire for independence. Duterte may claim that the Philippines continues to pursue its "independent foreign policy" according to his supporters, but the question is: how can a country who can't even pursue self reliance really defend its sovereignty? As far as a concerned person knows that those who pursue an independent foreign policy are the ones who are serious in self-reliance and uphelding its sovereignty so strongly and with dignity.

Perhaps, it is really the duty of the Filipino to assert its independence: that neither from Washington nor Beijing, Wall Street nor Shanghai Bund, would ever dicate Juan and Maria's lives.  

"(politically-laced) Poems for the day of the dead"

"(politically-laced) Poems for the day of the dead"

"Blood and Iron, not blue or yellow ribbon"

The sounds of battle resounds tonight

As the news of people's hatred felt the order fear
With the thugs felt its tremor despite appearing strong
The final battle is ever near

The people had enough of peace, wanting to go beyond the wall
And tonight they want to storm the ramparts, storming hell they despise
As the palace complex immediately closes its gates
Expecting days and nights-cries of disquiet and rage

And those who plea for peace "cries for sobriety"
NO! said by the folk who demand liberty
That prayers to avert bloodshed is no use 
-for it won't stop fighting back against the order's blasphemy

Expect thunder of hatred, lightning of vengeance
Wind of mayhem blows over their forts and redoubts
Neither law nor heaven will save the goddamned system
With their dear leader-tyrant loses all control

Expect tanks and cannons turning against their users
Decaying flesh of murderers scattered over once proud roads
News reports about tyrants drowning desperate propagandas
As the folk themselves marching over to the center of doom

Blood and Iron, than blue or yellow ribbons
From the folk having enough of past sentimentalities
As they barge the gates and storming walls 
Entering the palace and overturning the throne

Victory is complete with the lead tyrant hanging overturned

"Silence in the Cemetery"

(Or "Thoughts after day of the dead
in the time of the pandemic")

Candles didn't lit nor prayers wailed in their graves

As darkness and silence prevails over sacred fields

Trees, grass, and moss cover the tombs and niches

As no one allows to enter this holy day

"Because of the pandemic" as what authorities say

to justify not enter the cemetery this sacred day

The way parties for all hallow's not allowed since yesterday

Still the moon laughs and whispers to spirits wandering away

For sure at homes they lit their candles and say their prayers

If not doing nothing, thinking as if nothing happened in their busy lairs

Authorities trying to control situations, all because of this pandemic

Or is it trying to avert the people's tremor that to theirs a coming panic?

For now I treat this poem a prayer for all the passed, fallen

A prayer for the spirits wandering, thinking about heaven

accompanied by a music, as hallow as a requiem

And lighted candles, incenses for the beloved departed and the victims of the dreaded system

"A modern day witch hunt"
(Or "Thoughts after the recent red tag on Catriona Gray")

Someone slander a maiden in the virtual square last afternoon
As if trying to burn a witch that thug in uniform slandered a maiden for singing a different tune
Just because she's concerned therefore was painted red
While the choirs of the rotting order singing against her dread

That maiden is of renowned beauty as the papers say
Having a crown in her head as she won from a pageant day
Magazines treated her a mannequin as one may describe
While men wooing at her as if she like

But because of her surroundings she voiced a concern
That for the order way different from queens commonly heard
And a thug in uniform, acting judge and jury pointing her, accuse
Along with others concerned as bandits, for a concern cannot refuse

Is voicing a serious concern, such as from a known person an act of subversion?
Especially in this time when threat and bloodshed has becoming a reason?
What more of a pandemic, or hunger, that shatters delusion
Brought by the order who while preaches change is but a reaction?

The reports remained fresh as thugs and slanderers remain
Playing the same tune that plays time and again:
Painting the concerned "red", crying wolves, and accusing them of crime
As if those from the past: preparing the stake and hay for the burning time!

But still the concerned cannot submit from their slander
Brought about by the thug who tries to defend that wretched order
That the folk had enough from the witch hunt they had brought
While assuming there is freedom when in fact almost not

That even those from the halls find cringe their fellow's thoughts
Thinking it spoils their agenda of destroying their foes
As instead comes the storm of heckles no matter apologists bleat
The witch hunt turns out to be against the attacker resisting the beat

Perhaps in this present time the order remains medieval
That for theirs an empowered folk means an action so evil
That the call for freedom and justice is an incantation cannot be tamed
But instead a spell for the order and its thugs end maimed

Wouldn't be surprised for someone all just because of being concerned
That they're willing to sacrifice beauty or fame so justice prevailed
Not even surprised they ditch a long-term fame for an eternal flame
The bejeweled crown for freedom, a lady to become a dame